RCS reduction using embedded meta-structure absorber in X-band

Abstract

One approach for lowering radar cross section (RCS) is by reducing reflection, which can be achieved by use of absorbers. Embedded meta-structure absorbers (MSAs) are void of metallic resonating structures, which minimize out-of-band reflections thus reducing the chance of detection by radar systems. Here, an X-band MSA is developed by embedding ionic deep eutectic solvent gel as subwavelength cuboidal resonant structures in flexible silicone rubber. The material properties and structural geometry of the gel combines to enhance the − 10 dB absorption bandwidth to more than 80 % . The fabricated Gel-Si MSA is sufficiently flexible with an overall thickness of ∼ 0.0775 λ 0 . 10 dB RCS reduction is evaluated in the range over the X-band. The RCS properties are insensitive to polarization angles up to ± 90 ∘ and incident angle up to ± 40 ∘ .